Gavi Commits Rs 8.59 Billion in Vaccine Support to Nepal Through 2030
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has pledged over Rs 8.59 billion to support Nepal’s routine immunization program through 2030, while also waiving over USD 300,000 in previous audit-related dues.
Nepal has secured a significant commitment from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to support the country's national routine immunization program through 2030. According to reports from DC Nepal, Onlinekhabar, and the Annapurna Post, the international health partnership will provide assistance valued at Rs 8.59 billion (specifically Rs 8,591,968,000) for Nepal’s national routine immunization program.
Minister for Health and Food Hygiene Nisha Mehta announced the funding on October 27, 2026. She attributed the successful securing of these resources to ongoing diplomatic initiatives and dialogue between the Nepali government and the global vaccine alliance. The funding is intended to ensure the continuity, accessibility, and overall effectiveness of routine immunization services, which remain a cornerstone of Nepal's strategy to protect children and vulnerable populations from infectious diseases.
Waiver of Outstanding Dues
In addition to the new funding commitment, the negotiations resulted in a financial reprieve for the government. Gavi has agreed to waive a debt of USD 308,271 that had previously been flagged as an outstanding repayment.
According to the Ministry of Health and Food Hygiene, this amount was identified during an audit of the national immunization program covering the fiscal years 2016/17 through 2021/22. Auditors had initially categorized the sum as a procedural error, requiring the government to return the funds. By facilitating discussions with Gavi, Minister Mehta’s office successfully argued for the waiver of this amount.
Impact on Financial Management
Health officials have characterized the dual outcome—the long-term funding commitment and the debt waiver—as a major achievement for the country's health sector. In a statement provided to the media, the Ministry noted that these developments will significantly strengthen the financial management of the national immunization program.
At a time when global development aid and financial resources are facing increased pressure, the assurance of sustained support through 2030 is viewed as a vital step toward maintaining the country's public health gains. The government expects that this stability will allow for the uninterrupted delivery of vaccines, ensuring that Nepal continues to meet its health targets despite broader economic challenges.